Calla lilies hold a special meaning. Their trumpet-shaped flowers come in a range of colors from white to pink, yellow, and more. Some calla lilies even have beautiful purple or red speckles. When you give or receive these stunning blooms, you may wonder—what is the story and symbolism behind the calla lily?
These flowers have an eye-catching shape and rich history. Let’s explore the origins, attributes, and significance of the calla lily. Discover what this bloom symbolizes and how it became so popular at weddings and for conveying heartfelt emotions.
A Striking Shape with Many Names
You’ve likely seen calla lilies in bouquets, gardens, and artwork. But did you know this flower has many other names too? These include the arum lily, trumpet lily, pig lily, and more.
The calla lily belongs to the Araceae family along with anthurium, caladium, and peace lilies. There are over 20 wild species, though the hybrid Calla palustris is the most common. It has a single white trumpet-like flower on top of a long, slender stem arising from a basal rosette. The leaves are thick, green, heart-shaped, and have a glossy finish.
While “lily” is in the name, calla lilies are not true lilies. But it’s easy to see how they got this mistaken moniker. The curved “trumpet” shape resembles many true lilies. Yet when you look closely, their structure sets them apart. True lilies like Asiatics have six petals. Callas have just one petal, called a spathe, cupped around finger-like spadices holding the reproductive parts.
This singular spathe is responsible for the calla’s unique look. It curls up around the spadix in a tubular shape, opening at the end. This creates a striking, almost regal flower form that demanded attention as the calla lily grew in prominence.
A Long History as a Symbolic Flower
The calla lily has significance across different cultures and eras. Starting as a wildflower in South Africa, it entered cultivation in the 1700s. Calla lilies were a popular cut flower during the Victorian era. Breeders developed cultivars in new colors for better vase appeal.
In the Victorian language of flowers, white calla lilies represented radiant beauty and purity. Their strong fragrance evoked thoughts of marriage and fidelity.
The calla lily’s ties to marriage continued into the 20th century when it became a staple at weddings. The pure white blossoms complemented bridal gowns. They became a traditional wedding flower, used in bouquets and decor.
In fact, calla lilies symbolized marriage even earlier in ancient Rome. They were sacred flowers representing Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. They adorned statues of Venus and Aphrodite, enhancing the figures’ allure.
Modern Meanings: Style, Passion and Rebirth
Today, calla lilies retain an association with passion and romance. Their dramatic form has also come to represent style and sophistication. The less common dark calla lily varieties, like black or deep burgundy, have an added allure of mystery.
In color psychology, lighter calla lily varieties reflect purity from the white flowers. Meanwhile, dark hues like purple symbolize creativity and imagination.
An interesting calla lily meaning arose in the 20th century—rebirth. As the flower grows from a rhizome, it came to signify revival and new beginnings.
The calla lily’s symbolism and signature look have earned it a spot across artistic mediums. It graced artwork by masters like Diego Rivera and Georgia O’Keefe. Calla lilies are also a popular subject in photography. Their sculptural quality makes a striking image.
Give the Gift of Calla Lilies
Part of the calla lily’s appeal is its eye-catching form. The single petal curled into a trumpet shape commands your gaze. You can’t miss these flowers. They also come in so many colors, from white and pink to purple, yellow, orange and more.
This makes calla lilies a great choice for gifting. A few key symbolic meanings to keep in mind:
- White callas represent purity and innocence
- Pink callas symbolize appreciation and admiration
- Yellow callas signify joy and celebration
- Purple callas mean passion and creativity
- Orange callas inspire confidence and pride
A mixed bouquet covers multiple meanings! Or pick a specific color to send a coded message. Add calla lilies to say “I love you” or “thinking of you” for anniversaries, birthdays, condolences, encouragement, and more. Just be sure to check meanings to pick the right sentiment.
Display calla lilies in a vase or float them in a bowl. Pair them with other flowers or let their unique shape shine solo. Their upward facing blooms reflect ascension, uplifting the spirit of recipients.
Grow Your Own Calla Lilies
Want to nurture some of these symbolic flowers yourself? Calla lilies are a great landscaping plant and also suited to container gardening. Here’s a quick guide to growing and caring for calla lilies:
- Planting: Choose a partially shaded spot with rich, well-draining soil. Plant the rhizomes or tubers a few inches deep and 12-18 inches apart in spring after the last frost.
- Water: Keep the soil constantly moist but not soggy. Water 2-3 times a week.
- Sun: Callas thrive in about 6 hours of filtered sunlight or bright shade daily.
- Fertilizer: Use liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks while plants are actively growing. Avoid high nitrogen formulas.
- Pruning: Cut spent flowers back to the stem and remove yellowing leaves to keep calla lilies looking fresh.
- Hardiness: Most callas are perennial in zones 8-11 but grown as annuals or houseplants elsewhere. They can’t withstand frost.
With the right care, calla lilies will brighten up your garden with unique blooms and rich meaning. The calla lily’s symbolism and history remain wrapped up in its distinctive form.
The Calla Lily Stands Apart
The calla lily has an undeniable presence with its striking trumpet-like shape. This captivating flower carries deep meaning and has graced art and celebrations across cultures. Next time you give or receive calla lilies, reflect on their rich symbolism of beauty, marriage, creativity, and rebirth. Let these radiant blooms inspire passion and joy when shared with loved ones.